Injectables

As we age, many changes occur that cause us to look older. Our skin loses its elasticity, and we begin to develop fine lines and wrinkles that are especially noticeable on our faces. In addition, the face tends to lose the fat tissue that creates its youthful plumpness, which leads to the formation of hollows and other contour irregularities. As these conditions worsen, many men and women begin feeling self-conscious about looking older than they feel.

Injectables provide patients with a more youthful and rested appearance by improving the following conditions:

• Fine lines
• Wrinkles
• Deep lines on the forehead
• Deep creases and folds
• Hollows
• Shallow contours
• Recessed scars
• Thin lips

The Procedure

Injectable formulas are strategically injected into the targeted areas with a small needle. The injections only take a few minutes per site, and the entire treatment process is usually complete within 15 to 60 minutes.

Injectables

There are various injectables available, and the ideal type for you will depend on the correction needed. In general, there are two different types of injectables: neurotoxins and dermal fillers. During your initial consultation, your surgeon will evaluate you to determine the best injectable(s) to meet your individual needs and achieve your goals.

Neurotoxins

BOTOX® Cosmetic

Made of a protein derived from botulinum toxin A, BOTOX® Cosmetic relaxes the targeted muscles and is FDA approved for treating fine lines and wrinkles, deep lines on the forehead, frown lines and furrows between the eyebrows, and crow’s feet. BOTOX® Cosmetic typically takes four to seven days for the onset to be noticeable, and the results usually last between three and six months.

In addition to cosmetic facial rejuvenation, BOTOX® is also an FDA-approved treatment for chronic migraine headaches, primary axillary hyperhidrosis (excessive underarm sweating), and an overactive bladder.

Dysport®

Dysport® has been FDA approved for use in the United States since 2009. Dysport® is similar to BOTOX® Cosmetic but has a slightly faster onset, with results becoming apparent in one to two days. Dysport® offers natural-looking results that last up to four months.

Dermal Fillers

JUVÉDERM® XC

JUVÉDERM® XC is an FDA-approved gel filler made of hyaluronic acid that improves the appearance of moderate to severe facial wrinkles, lines, and folds around the nose and mouth and restores natural contours to the face. JUVÉDERM® XC effectively treats nasolabial folds (parentheses lines), vertical lip lines, lines at the corners of the mouth, and marionette lines. The results from JUVÉDERM® XC last up to a year after just one treatment.

JUVÉDERM VOLUMA™ XC

JUVÉDERM VOLUMA™ XC is the first and only dermal filler made of hyaluronic acid that is FDA approved to instantly add volume to the cheek area for patients over 21 years of age. Results from JUVÉDERM VOLUMA™ XC can last up to two years.

RADIESSE® Volumizing Filler

RADIESSE® Volumizing Filler is made of calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) microspheres suspended in an aqueous gel that plump the skin to provide instant results. Once injected, the CaHA microspheres stimulate the natural production of collagen in the skin so that results last long after the injectable is absorbed by the body. RADIESSE® Volumizing Filler is the most common CaHA injectable formula and effectively improves the appearance of moderate to severe wrinkles and folds, including smile lines, marionette lines, lines at the corners of the mouth, hollows in the pre-jowl area, and chin wrinkles.

Restylane®

Restylane® is an injectable gel made of hyaluronic acid that restores volume, smooths fine lines and wrinkles, enhances facial contours, and creates fuller lips. Results from Restylane® are instant and generally last six months to a year, although some studies show that results can last up to 18 months.

Sculptra® Aesthetic

Sculptra® Aesthetic is the first injectable that provides subtle, natural-looking results over time. Made from poly-L-lactic acid, this injectable works deep within the dermis to gradually replace lost collagen, improve shallow to deep nasolabial wrinkles and folds, and provide a more refined, youthful appearance. Results from Sculptra® Aesthetic can last more than two years.

Other Injectables

Kybella®

Both men and women can sometimes be affected by submental fullness, referred to as the “double chin”. You do not have to be overweight to have fullness here, but rather this can be caused by genetics and aging. If you are interested in reducing this fullness, Kybella may be right for you. The first of it’s kind, a non-surgical way to reduce submental fullness.

Kybella is a deoxycholic acid injection that when injected into the fat under the chin (submental fat), permanently destroys fat cells. Once destroyed, the cells can no longer store fat in the area.

Injectables FAQ

Q. Will injectable treatment hurt?
A. Most formulas are FDA approved to be mixed with an anesthetic to reduce any potential discomfort. The skin may also be chilled, treated with a topical anesthetic ointment, or injected with an anesthetic for patient comfort.

Q. How long is recovery after treatment?
A. No downtime is required after injectable treatment. However, some swelling, redness, and tenderness may be present immediately after treatment and, depending on the type of injectable, may persist for a few days.

Q. How much do injectables cost?
A. The price of each injectable varies depending on the formula, the number of areas treated, and the amount of correction needed.

Q. How long will the results from injectables last?
A. The results of injectables vary anywhere from three months up to two years. Formulas that stimulate collagen production generally last longer.